“The New York Badass” Phil Baroni (13-13 MMA, 3-7 UFC) was released from his UFC contract following a first round TKO loss to Brad Tavares at UFC 125 on New Year’s Day. It was his second straight loss with the promotion, the first being a unanimous decision loss to Amir Sadollah at UFC 106 in Nov. 2009.
Despite Baroni’s less-than-stellar record he has remained a fan favorite due to his exciting go-for-broke style and flamboyant personality. “The New York Badass” commented on his release Monday on a post on The Underground:
Hey guys thanks for the support. Im a fighter and Ill have to figure out how to fight through this and win some fights and get back in a big show. Its really the only option I have unless the UFC or another big promotion gave me a chance. Im a fighter and this is what I do…… I fight.
I got beat, I lost but I had a good long camp and was doing well in training and early in the fight. If Dana gives me another chance Ill be very happy. If not Ill have 2 fight else where. Maybe Ill get a good opportunity or maybe Ill have to fight for it. Its out of my hands now.
I was given a chance and I blew it. Ill have to wait and see. I plan on getting back on the horse ASAP and getting some wins regardless.
2011 can only go up from here lol.
NYBA
Phil B
There was some question as to why the UFC brought Baroni back in the first place since he was coming off a 2009 loss to Joe Riggs in Strikeforce when he signed with the promotion, and despite his exciting style, has never won more than three straight fights in his career.
Baroni’s first UFC appearance dates back to 2001 when he defeated Curtis Stout via unanimous decision at “UFC 30: Battle on the Boardwalk” at the Trump Taj Mahal in Atlantic City, N.J. Tito Ortiz vs. Evan Tanner was the headliner that night.